« Orthodox pilgrimage to the spring of Holy Martyr Oswald, King of Northumbria, in Guiseley »

On Saturday, July 12, 2025, on the day of remembrance of the holy glorious and all-praiseworthy chief Apostles Peter and Paul, with the blessing of His Grace Bishop Matthew of Sourozh, an Orthodox pilgrimage to the spring of the Holy Martyr Oswald, King of Northumbria (c. 603 - 642), took place in the town of Guiseley, West Yorkshire.

An Orthodox Liturgy was celebrated in the ancient Anglican church of St. Oswald, the original construction of which dates back to 1150. The service was celebrated by the Rector of the parishes of St. Blessed Xenia of Petersburg in Leeds, of the Meeting of the Lord in Bradford, of St.St. Equal-to-the-Apostles Constantine and Helena in York, of the Nativity of Christ in Kingston upon Hull, Priest Anatoly Vikhrov.

The service was attended by singers from the parishes of Bradford, York and Hull.

The faithful from the parishes of the Northern English Deanery and from the Dormition Cathedral in London prayed and received the Holy Mysteries of Christ during the Liturgy.

After the dismissal, Priest Anatoly Vikhrov addressed the pilgrims with a sermon, which was dedicated to the day of remembrance of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. In conclusion, Fr. Anatoly thanked those present and the singers from among them for their participation in the pilgrimage. Special words of gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate the Orthodox Liturgy were addressed to the Rector of St. Oswald's Church, Fr. David Pickett, and the Anglican parish community. 

Then the pilgrims made a religious procession to the nearby spring of St. Oswald, where a water-blessing moleben was served, after which Father Anatoly sprinkled the worshipers with holy water. 

The pilgrims continued their fellowship over a common fraternal meal. 

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